Nigerian chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has began his attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon on Wednesday, April 17th.
Onakoya, known for his philanthropical activities, announced his plan to play chess continuously for 58 hours without losing a game from 10am on April 17 to 8pm on April 19 in Times Square, New York City.
The current Guinness World Record stands at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds and was set by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad (Both Norway) on November 11, 2018.
Via his X account, Onakoya stated that he is doing this for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education.
On the 17th of April 2024, I will attempt to break the Guiness World record for the longest Chess marathon in the heart of Times Square New York City for 58 hours without losing a game,”
“Doing this for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education,” he tweeted.
Onakoya is well-known for his admirable work using chess as a means to provide opportunities for children living in marginalized areas, commonly known as slums, within the country.
In an interview with Channels Television, he explained that he knew the pain of hunger.
He said, “We knew the pain of not having access, and that is the real tragedy of poverty. It’s not just about not having money; you’re not having access. You’re completely removed from systems—you know, education, the rule of law, everything.”
“I aim to be the support I wished I had when I was younger, for someone else”.
Nigerians drummed their supports for Onakoya as they flooded his comment section with words of encouragement.
Some reactions are shown below:
@RitableP said, “1. Bring it home, 2. Set the record, 3. Make us proud, I pray for wisdom and strength, Chess it out ❤️❤️❤️❤️”.
@Iampenlord said, “God will grant you victory, thank you Tunde. God luck 🫡”.
Hybrid_Ola said, “Road to 58hours even if I don’t understand the game”.
@WinnersWhispers said, “Go Tunde! We are rooting for you. All of creation is cheering you on. 👏👏”.
@TundeTASH said, “Godspeed, my name sake. We are all with you. ♟️”.
@khanofkhans11_ said, “Wishing you success. We are solidly rooting for you.”
@aronvic98 said, “We are solidly behind you, king”.
